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Semin Neurol 2001; 21(4): 377-390
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-19409
Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Polysomnographic Assessment of Spells in Sleep: Nocturnal Seizures Versus Parasomnias

Mark Eric Dyken1 , Thoru Yamada1 , Deborah C. Lin-Dyken2
  • 1Department of Neurology Sleep Disorders Center, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa and
  • 2Department of Pediatrics, The Center for Disabilities and Development, Children's Hospital of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
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Publication History

Publication Date:
02 January 2002 (online)

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ABSTRACT

A dilemma can arise when attempting to distinguish a nocturnal seizure from a parasomnia because both phenomena can be characterized by a general increase in motor and autonomic activity with a transient reduction in the level of consciousness. An additional problem is that an accurate clinical diagnosis generally relies heavily on a detailed history. As sleep related disorders occur at a time when the patient is not fully cognizant, polysomnographic analysis can on occasion supplement for the intrinsic paucity of detailed history. Simultaneously, correlating the clinical and polysomnographic analysis immediately prior to, during, and following an event of interest, can be helpful in differentiating nocturnal seizures from parasomnias.

KEYWORD

Polysomnography - digital polysomnography - nocturnal seizures - parasomnias

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